We all have habits we would prefer to get rid of. Whether its jealousy or being closed off, negative social habits can hurt friendships, relationships, and make connection difficult. Here are three habits to nix before the year ends:

1. Passive Aggression:

Passive Aggression aka “shade” is when you purposely indicate that you’re discontent without speaking about it. This can seem like an attractive option when you don’t want to be directly confrontational, and especially attractive for those who don’t prefer speaking about problems they have. However, this is a problematic way to navigate social situations because its best to be upfront, honest and forthright in all situations.

2. Discounting:

Discounting is when you dismiss the ideas or opinions of a person without giving them fair consideration. This is easy to fall into because when supporting an idea, we usually think our choice is the best choice and naturally would rather everyone make the same decision. Discounting is a dangerous behavior because the person you’re speaking to will

feel unheard and most likely resent your indignation. Whether in a formal debate, or a casual discussion listening to others is an important part of proving that you are fair and open to new ideas.

3. Defensiveness:

Defensiveness is becoming closed off to any new ideas and overly-defending your preexisting idea. A lot of people can be guilty of this. It is sometimes difficult to dissociate ourselves from the ideas we have. As a result an attack on our ideas can feel like an attack on our person, to which we respond poorly. Remaining logical and levelheaded is the best cure for this behavior. Understanding that although someone may disagree with us, they aren’t attacking us personally.